Bruins' McAvoy has procedure for abnormal heart rhythm

Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy skates during the first period against the Ottawa Senators in game five of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canadian Tire Centre last spring. (Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports)

Charlie McAvoy is expected to miss some time after a undergoing a medical procedure Monday.

After missing practice Monday morning, the Boston Bruins’ impressive rookie is expected to sit out two weeks while recovering from a procedure to treat an abnormal heart rhythm. McAvoy had the treatment done Monday at Massachusetts General Hospital.

In a statement, Bruins Team Internist Dr. David Finn noted that McAvoy told team physicians following a loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Nov. 26 that he experienced heart palpitations during the game.

After subsequent evaluations, McAvoy was diagnosed with a supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The Bruins were quick to note that the type of SVT McAvoy has is not considered to be dangerous to his health, but it can recur at any time and causes serious symptoms.

Upon consulting with team physicians, McAvoy decided to treat the condition with a procedure called an ablation.

Finn added: “The decision to have the procedure done at this time is due to a high probability of recurrence. During the period from the initial occurrence through Saturday’s game, Charlie was cleared to play by the medical team and was monitored closely.”

The statement concluded with a note that McAvoy will be monitored at MGH overnight Monday.

McAvoy has been a huge boost on defense for the surging Bruins, inserting himself the Calder Trophy conversation after leading all rookies in average ice time this season at 22:48. McAvoy is also sixth on the team in scoring with five goals, and 20 assists.